Right tackle Mike McGlinchey is one of the most important players on the Broncos\u2019 roster, and there\u2019s a $87.5 million contract to validate that statement.<\/p>\n
When McGlinchey left practice Aug. 8 due to a knee sprain, there was some concern given that he was the centerpiece of an offseason overhaul of the offensive line. But he is back in full strength after the injury scare.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s great to get back,\u201d McGlinchey said after Wednesday\u2019s practice. \u201cOur training staff did an unbelievable job, and I was able to get back a little bit quicker than expected.\u201d<\/p>\n
McGlinchey was sidelined for two weeks, missing all three preseason games. McGlinchey, safety Justin Simmons (groin) and wide receiver Brandon Johnson (ankle) returned to practice Aug. 22.<\/p>\n
Even though McGlinchey didn\u2019t play any snaps during the preseason games, he thought the two-day joint practices with the Los Angeles Rams were valuable.<\/p>\n
Head coach Sean Payton knew McGlinchey would not play in the preseason finale against the Rams, but the amount of reps he played at practice exceeded a game.<\/p>\n
\u201cThose joint practices (were) a great test,\u201d he said. \u201cThey (are) a great way to (train your) mind to compete in a game situation. Practices are like playing in a preseason game, so it was incredible getting like bullets from a different jersey.\u201d<\/p>\n
McGlinchey said Denver\u2019s revamped offensive line wants to be consistent. With the addition of left guard Ben Powers and Garett Bolles healthy, McGlinchey has embraced the group\u2019s high expectations.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think we’re taking the right steps to get there,\u201d he said. \u201cI hope the rest of the team has felt that during training camp because we worked pretty good.\u201d<\/p>\n